Birthing Massage
Research indicates that caring touch during deliveries results in shorter, smoother births with fewer requests for pain medication and fewer complications. From the onset of labor to the emergence of the baby, the massage therapist can play a vital role in the birthing mother’s circle of support by:
- Providing relaxation massage in early labor.
- Stimulating the progression of labor.
- Providing comfort measures during contractions.
- Extending the mother’s stamina by facilitating relaxation between contractions.
- Helping to turn a posterior presenting baby.
- Suggesting position changes for the mother to encourage the baby’s progression.
- Assisting with breathing, pushing and imagery exercises.
- Encouraging participation by the birth partner and other family members.